Claiming some 34,000 kilometres (21,126 miles) of coastline, Australia isn’t short of beaches. You’ll find some of the world’s most beautiful and diverse stretches of ocean here, from the tropical idyll of Whitehaven Beach to the rugged magnificence of Tasmania’s Wineglass Bay. Few beaches are crowded, all are free.

Beach season in Australia’s southern half is generally from November to March, with year-round beach weather in the north. Admittedly, the tropical waters of Queensland (north of Gladstone), Western Australia (north of Exmouth) and the Northern Territory harbour venomous box jellyfish, most active from October to April. Some beaches are installed with stinger nets, though you should always check with locals before entering the water. Wetsuits and full-body Lycra swimsuits prevent stings. Saltwater crocodiles are also a threat in northern Australia’s waterways; always heed safety signs.

Rips (undertows) are a common danger around the country. If caught in one, keep calm and swim parallel to the shore until you’re out of the rip. Never swim against it. Where a beach is patrolled by lifesavers, always swim between the red-and-yellow flags.

Wherever you hit the coast, be sun smart: apply SPF50+ sunscreen and wear a hat and UV-protected sunglasses, especially in summer.

Beach Safe has information on beaches across Australia, from current water/air temperatures and UV levels, to beach amenities and general safety tips. Surfline offers detailed, real-time info on the best surf breaks.